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Dark matter, which Einstein's theory of general relativity suggests constitutes about 85% of the universe's material, remains one of the most profound mysteries in physics. Its presence is inferred from gravitational effects that cannot be explained by observable matter alone. Axions, with their light mass and potential abundance, fit the criteria needed to fill this gap in our understanding. These particles, theorized to emit heat, could cluster in dense formations known as 'axion stars,' behaving in ways that might finally allow scientists to detect them.
Professor Malcolm Fairbairn elucidated the significance of their findings, stating, "Axions have the capacity to heat the universe just like supernovae and ordinary stars after coming together in dense clumps. This realization dramatically narrows down the search area for these particles, allowing us to direct our instruments more precisely."
The study suggests that axion stars, under certain conditions, could become unstable and explode, releasing electromagnetic radiation and photons. Such explosions could have heated the intergalactic gas in the early universe, altering the appearance of cosmic background radiation (CMB) during the period between the big bang and the formation of the first stars. This hypothesis introduces a novel avenue for detecting axions by observing the CMB through 21cm radio wave measurements, a technique that peers into the universe's infancy.
"Coherent axion stars have the potential to burst into a halo of electromagnetism and light," Fairbairn elaborated. "Understanding the structures axion dark matter can form and its impact on surrounding intergalactic gas opens new pathways for its detection."
The researchers have computed the potential number of axion stars across the universe and their likely influence on intergalactic gas, aiding in the refinement of 21cm measurement techniques to distinguish signals that may originate from axion stars. This method could revolutionize the identification of dark matter, resolving a century-old scientific question and shedding light on the early universe's history.
David Marsh, a member of the research team, emphasized the broader implications of their work, stating, "21cm measurement is generally seen as the future of cosmology. The role it plays in the search for the axion underscores its importance. With a burgeoning number of axion searches underway, including projects like Dark Matter Radio, it's an incredibly exciting time to be an astrophysicist."
This research from King's College London represents a pivotal step in the collective effort to unravel the mysteries of dark matter. By proposing a novel method to track down axions, these scientists are not just expanding our understanding of the universe but are also pioneering the techniques that will drive the future of cosmological research.
Research Report:Soliton merger rates and enhanced axion dark matter decay
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King's College London
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